Most people who have attended church have heard that God exists forever as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Furthermore, they know something about the Father. Likely, they are even more familiar with the Son. But if you ask them to tell you about the Holy Spirit, they might give you a blank look. The second half of John 14 can help. Here Jesus helps us understand the identity and role of this oft-neglected third person of the Trinity. The Spirit of God is not some impersonal force or influence, and so should never be referred to as “it.” Jesus uses personal pronouns to describe “Him.” “He” has been sent from the Father to remain with us forever as our “Helper.” The word is also translated “Counselor” (NIV), but it’s best to think of Him as a legal counselor or advocate, rather than a camp counselor or psychological therapist. Another translation uses the word “Comforter” (KJV), but He does more than wipe away tears, He gives strength to carry on. The Spirit is given to empower and encourage believers. The Greek word is found only one other time in the New Testament (1 John 2:1), and there it is used of Jesus Himself, our “advocate” with the Father. The Holy Spirit is called “another” Helper because He provides the same kind of help. When the Spirit comes to indwell us, it’s as if Jesus Himself is taking up residence in us (v 15-17; cf 16:7). Through the Spirit, we are given a vivid, heart-warming experience of God’s love. Jesus describes it as being drawn into an eternal relationship of deep intimacy and mysterious oneness. As the Father Himself was present with the disciples through Jesus, Jesus and the Father will be with us through His Spirit. The thought is overwhelming: we are embraced by the triune God! But four times Jesus emphasizes He is speaking of those who truly love Him. Genuine affection for Jesus inevitably results in obedience to His commands (v 18-24). Those commands are recorded in the New Testament, which was written by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Jesus didn’t teach in a classroom with apostles taking careful notes. Rather, He promised that the Spirit would later help them remember all of His words. We can trust the accuracy of Scripture because “the Spirit of truth” (v 17) superintended the whole process, making sure the words were written exactly as God wanted them to be (v 25-26). That’s why we should seek the Spirit’s help as we read the Bible: the Author lives within us! Guided by His Word, we will know indescribable peace (v 27), joy (v 28), and faith (v 29-31). Thank God today for His Spirit at work in you! For further meditation: